ArduinoJargon

Understanding these terms will help you navigate Arduino projects and documentation more effectively

Arduino Jargon and Terms

Arduino jargon can be confusing for beginners, but understanding key terms is essential for working with this popular prototyping platform. Here are some important Arduino jargon terms explained:

• Core Concepts
  • Arduino: An open-source prototyping platform on a small Circuit Board for electronics and DIY projects[2].
  • Sketch: The name for an Arduino program, which must contain void setup() and void loop() structures[2][5].
  • IDE (Integrated Development Environment): A software application that includes a code editor, compiler, and debugger for writing and uploading Arduino sketches[2].

• Hardware Components
  • Arduino Board: A MicroComputer that can be used to create, design, and experiment with electronics[3].
  • Breadboard: A prototyping tool used to build temporary circuits without soldering
  • Breakout Board or "Brick": A small printed circuit board with a specific type of circuit, which can be connected to an Arduino via wires[1].
  • Pin: The connection points on an Arduino board, used for inputs and outputs[1].

• Programming Concepts
  • Variable: A container for storing information in a program[2].
  • Function: A set of instructions applied to given inputs in a program[2].
  • Datatype: A set of values with pre-defined characteristics in programming[2].
  • Debugging: The process of finding and fixing errors in code[2].

• Electronic Components
  • LED (Light Emitting Diode): A small electronic component that emits light when current flows through it[3].
  • Resistor: An electronic component used to limit and control voltage and current in a circuit[3].
    • Current Limiting Resistor: A resistor used specifically to control the current through a device such as an LED

Electrical Jargon and Terms

• Voltage Source: A device that provides a constant voltage to a circuit, such as a battery.
• Load: The component in a circuit that consumes electrical energy, like a light bulb.
• Resistance: The opposition to the flow of electric current, measured in ohms (Ω).
• Voltage Drop: The decrease in voltage across a component due to resistance, calculated using Ohm's Law (V=IR).
• Circuit: A path through which electric current flows, typically consisting of a voltage source, load, and conductors.

• Series Circuit: Components are connected one after the other, sharing the same current.
• Parallel Circuit: Components are connected between the same two points, allowing current to flow through each independently.
• Short Circuit: A path of zero resistance, causing excessive current flow.
• Open Circuit: A break in the circuit, preventing current flow.

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